Mucocele of appendix: A rare case study and review of literature

Introduction: Mucocele of Appendix refers to the dilatation of the appendix due to mucus. It is a rare disorder with an estimated incidence of 0.2%-0.7% of all appendectomies performed [6] and 8% -10% of all appendiceal tumours [1]. It can be triggered by benign or malignant diseases which cause obstruction of the appendix resulting in accumulation of mucus secretion. Complications of Appendiceal Mucocele include among others obstruction, intussusception, and pseudomyxoma peritonei, which has a particularly poor prognosis [2]. Case Report: 69 year old post-menopausal female presented with complaints of right lower abdominal pain and nausea for 15 days. She was evaluated with Contrast Enhanced CT. CT showed a 9.3 x 3.8 x 3.5 cm tubular, thin- walled cystic mass extending from the base of the caecum to the right adnexa in pelvis suggestive of Mucocele of the appendix. Appendix was removed in the usual method. The stump was buried in caecum by purse string sutures using vicryl. Conclusion: Mucoceles of the Appendix are rare. They have varied presentations. They should be properly evaluated and treated. Though right hemicolectomy is necessary in malignant lesions, it may be an over-treatment for benign mucoceles.